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About Cimba |
Less is More! |
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Students ski in the Alps. |
Key Packing Tips
- Consider the weather and typical standard of dress;
- Consider the classes you are taking and pack appropriate school supplies (i.e. calculator);
- Pack clothes that will air dry easily and are wrinkle free;
- Think comfortable;
- Ziplock bags have many uses;
- Most toiletries are available overseas. Particular brands may be hard to find, but all necessities are available in Italy;
- Be mindful about what type of luggage will work best for you and try to consolidate as much as possible;
- Clearly identify luggage on the inside and out;
- Less is more!
Luggage
Before packing, consider the size and shape of the luggage. Be sure to inquire about airline restrictions and consider travel plans before purchasing new luggage. Students will have to carry their own bags when traveling and often will have to walk some distance to train stations or hotels. The best bags are light and easy to carry but also durable. Former students have had great luck with backpacks from companies such as Jansport and Eagle Creek. Make sure to try backpacks on before purchasing. They should not tower above the carrier’s head and should rest comfortably at the waist. Camping stores often can help find the appropriate fit.
Clothing
Italians tend to dress more formally than Americans. No matter if the goal is to look Italian or not, be mindful of Italian preferences when packing. Students do not need to pack a lot of nice clothing. However, do not bring items that are ripped, torn or visibly worn down, as Italians find it inappropriate to dress in such a manner when dining out, visiting churches, etc. Italians also never wear shorts unless they are at the beach. Also keep in mind that women will not be allowed to enter some Italian churches wearing shorts above the knee and/or with bare shoulders.
During most programs, students will eat an authentic Italian meal as a group in a very nice restaurant. On this occasion, students are expected to dress appropriately.
Pack accordingly for weather and activities. The best way to cope with changing weather is to pack items that can be layered. At the beginning of the program, students should expect to participate in the Da Vinci Challenge (low ropes course). Students should have comfortable clothes that allow movement for this activity.
The key to packing is to decide whether an item is a necessity or a luxury. The less items packed means more mobility. One suggestion is to pack what can be carried easily across campus. A helpful hint for fitting more into a small space is to roll clothing tightly and bind if necessary with rubber bands; this creates more room and reduces wrinkles. Also, travelers with a lot of luggage stand out as tourists and mark themselves as a target to potential thieves.
Medication
Students who regularly take prescription medication should bring a supply to last the entire time abroad; medications cannot be shipped overseas. Carry the medication in original containers that clearly display the name of the patient, doctor and the medication. Carry copies of the prescription to avoid problems with customs and in the event that it needs to be filled abroad. It may be helpful to have a letter from the prescribing physician or pharmacist describing the medicine, dosage, generic name and description of the condition being treated. The letter could be helpful in an emergency. Do not pack all of the medication in checked luggage. A week’s worth should be packed in carry-on luggage so as to not be without medicine if luggage gets lost. Students who are diabetic or have another medical condition that requires syringes should bring an adequate supply of disposable syringes.
For students who prefer certain brands of over-the-counter medicines for common ailments, it may be wise to bring them from home. While there are drug stores in Italy that carry quality over-the-counter products, specific brands may not be available.
As it pertains to vitamins, many of the same treatments available in the U.S. can be found in Italy. While vitamins also can be sent from the U.S., recipients will be required to pay taxes before receiving them. Students have found that the taxes often make shipping vitamins more expensive they are worth.
Electrical Items
The electric current in Italy is 220 volts and 50 cycles (U.S. standards are 110 volts and 60 cycles). If appliances are not 220 volts, a small electric transformer with an adapter will be needed. Appliances used without a transformer and adaptor will be destroyed and injuries can occur. Transformers and adapters cannot be bought in Italy, but inexpensive appliances, such as hairdryers, can be purchased. Appliances used with a converter usually do not perform at the same level as when used in the U.S. Purchasing inexpensive electronic items in Italy will also save room when packing. Transformers and adapters can be found at most travel stores and discount retail stores. |
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